15th Anniversary of Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker at Warner Theater

Photo: The Washington Ballet by media4artists, Theo Kossenas

The Washington Ballet celebrates 15 years of DC’s perennial favorite ballet this year! The Nutcracker by the Washington Ballet began in 1961 and the all-American version of The Nutcracker by Artistic Director Septime Webre designed just for Washington, DC premiered in 2004. Set to Tchaikovsky’s magical score, this celebrated production set in 1882 early Georgetown has become the signature Nutcracker in our nation’s capital. Following the traditional story of the Nutcracker, Clara receives a nutcracker from her godfather at her family’s Christmas Eve Party which her brother promptly breaks. Clara sneaks back down to see her beloved toy after everyone has gone to bed and falls asleep by the tree. Drosselmeyer’s magic takes Clara on a magical journey from an enchanted winter to a glorious springtime.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

If you have never been to the Warner Theatre you are in for a treat! The grand theatre, steeped in Washington history, will transport you back in time to the roaring 20’s. Warner Theatre offers a beautiful backdrop to the stunning Nutcracker scenery (designed by Peter Horne). The beautifully painted scenes contain landmarks and shoutouts to our great city. The stunning costumes (designed by Judanna Lynn) bring these scenes to life as Clara makes the magical journey from her living room to the along with the Sugar Plum Fairy, dancers from the around the world, woodland creatures and Mother Barnum. We loved that some of the woodland creatures sat on the side of the stage, across from Clara & her handsome prince, watching the performances. The ballet performances are flawless. We were blown away by the Snow Queen, Sugar Plum Fairy, Little Blossoms, Bees and Cardinals.

Know before you go:

• The Nutcracker runs from November 29 – December 28 at the historic Warner Theatre in downtown Washington DC.
• Running Time: Approximately 2 ½ hours with one 15 minute intermission
• Recommended for kids ages 4 and up (although my 2.5 year old LOVED it!)
• Check out super value days when no tickets are more than $53!
• No food or drink can be brought into the theater, however, there are several full-service bars and water fountains inside.
• Give yourself an extra 20 minutes if you are picking up your tickets from will call and make sure you have your ID to do so.
• There’s a parking garage directly across the street from Warner Theater, and many restaurants on either side.
• Visiting during the holidays? You are only a few blocks from the National Christmas Tree!

The Washington Ballet
202-362-3606
info@washingtonballet.org

Warner Theatre
513 13th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20004
202-783-4000